How to Choose a Lube

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

You’ve probably seen lots of different lube bottles stacked up at your local pharmacy or grocery store—but which is right for you? Between all the different labels, it’s super understandable if you’re feeling a little concerned and uneasy about which to take home. Take a few minutes to review the facts so you pick a product that’s best for you or your partner’s needs.

Question 1 of 6:

What kind of lube should I use?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Water-based lube can be used for just about anything—it’s perfect for any kind of masturbation, and it works great with all of your favorite toys. You can also lube up your condoms without worrying about them breaking later on. Unfortunately, water-based lube washes away easily, so it’s not a great option if you’re a fan of shower or pool sex. [1]
    • Many water-based lubes are pretty affordable.
    • Some common water-based brands are Astroglide , Liquid Silk , and KY Jelly . [2]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/77\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    As the name suggests, silicone-based lube isn’t made with water, so you don’t have to worry about it washing away. It’s great option for shower, anal, or pool sex, and it won’t rub or wash away. Unfortunately, this product tends to be on the thicker side, and may be a little uncomfortable to use with your toys.
    • Don’t use silicone-based lube if you use silicone-based sex toys—they’ll damage your toys.
    • Wet Platinum , Eros , and ID Millennium are some well-known silicone lube brands. [3]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1d\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Oil-based lube is the slickest product of all, but also the most finicky. It’s a great option for penile masturbation, or if you’re giving your partner an intimate massage. Unfortunately, your body can’t absorb oil, so you shouldn’t use it to lube up your vagina. [4] Oil-based lubes will also eat through latex, so don’t use them with any latex condoms. [5]
    • Some oil-based lubes are listed as “massage oil.”
    • In general, oil-based lube shouldn’t be used for sex.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Warming lubes make your skin feel hotter, and can really boost your moments of pleasure and intimacy. Similarly, cooling lubes make your skin feel colder, and can help your masturbation and sex feel way more stimulating. [6]
    • Cooling lubes work great with glass or metal toys.
    • Some people find warming lubes a little irritating. Test out a small amount of this lube on a tiny section of skin before using too much of it! [7]
    5. Advertisement
Question 2 of 6:

Can I use lube with condoms?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/27\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-5-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-5-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These varieties won’t break down any of the material. Unfortunately, oil-based lubes will break down your condoms, and should only be used for massages or penile masturbation. [8]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Unlike latex condoms, the polyurethane variety won’t break down or split when used with oil-based lubes. If you’re experimenting with different kinds of lubes, stock up on this type of condom ahead of time. [9]
    3. Advertisement
Question 3 of 6:

What should I use instead of lube?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/71\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Coconut oil is a great option if you have a lot of allergies, or if you aren’t a fan of traditional lubes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work well with latex condoms. [10]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/95\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Pick up a bottle of this oil from your local pharmacy and give it a try. However, don’t use it with a condom—unfortunately, natural oils like vitamin E can break down condoms. [11]
    • You can also try vitamin E oil as a suppository. You typically need a prescription to get this, though.
    3. Advertisement
Question 4 of 6:

What is the best way to apply lube?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4c\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Squeeze out a grape-sized amount of water-based lube or a blueberry-sized amount of silicone- or oil-based lube onto your palm. Rub it over both the inner and outer lips of your vagina, as well as your clit. If needed, squeeze out and apply more lube as you need to. [12]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Rub the lube into any part of your skin where you plan on being massaged or pleasured. Start with a grape- or blueberry-sized amount of lube, using more product as needed. [13]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You don’t want any friction when you’re busy playing with yourself or your partner. Apply the lube all over the toy, so your playtime is as comfortable and smooth as possible. [14]
    • It’s a lot easier to feel turned on when your toys are lubed up.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c3\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Masturbation can lead to some uncomfortable friction—that’s where lube comes in! Rub some lube up and down the length of your penis so you can stay comfortable while you pleasure yourself. [15] Lubing up before sex also makes things a lot more comfortable for you and your partner. [16]
    • A grape-sized amount is usually enough if you’re working with water-based lube, while a blueberry-sized amount will get the job done with silicone- or oil-based lube.
    5. Advertisement
Question 5 of 6:

Which ingredients should I avoid?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Chlorhexidine gluconate, parabens, cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane, and cyclomethicone are all connected with different health concerns, like killing off healthy vaginal bacteria, causing irritation and rashes, and other issues. Ingredients like parabens, cyclomethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, and cyclotetrasiloxane are also connected with more serious concerns, like fertility and endocrine issues, along with other reproductive problems. [17]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/08\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-14.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some bottles of lube include ingredients like “fragrance,” “aroma,” or “flavor,” which aren’t great for your body. There’s no way to know what ingredients are these vague categories. In several cases, “fragrances” and “aromas” include toxins, carcinogens, and other bad ingredients. [18]
    3. Advertisement
Question 6 of 6:

Which lube should I use if I want to get pregnant?

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d1\/Choose-a-Lube-Step-15.jpg\/v4-728px-Choose-a-Lube-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    A lot of lubes can slow down sperm, and aren’t ideal if you’re hoping to get pregnant. Hydroxyethylcellulose-based lubes act a lot like vaginal mucus, and are a safe option if you’re planning for a family. [19]

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • A lot of lubes use glycerin, which can trigger yeast infections for some people.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      • Always use lube if you’re having anal sex with your partner, as this part of the body isn’t as flexible. Plus, lube makes the experience the experience a lot more pleasurable and comfortable for both parties. [22]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Some oil-based lubes are made with natural oils, like nut oil. If you have an allergy, stick with water- or silicone-based lube instead. [23]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make Sex Better
      Bondage 101: How to Tie Up Your Lover, Explained
      How to
      Have an Orgasm (for Women)
      How to
      Masturbate Better (For Women, Men & Folks of All Genders)
      How to
      Lose Your Virginity Without Pain (Girls)
      How to
      Have Phone Sex
      How to
      Know If Sperm Entered Your Body during Vaginal Sex
      How to
      Wow Your Husband in the Bedroom: Tips and Tricks to Try
      Undress to Impress: Remove Your Clothes (or Your Partner’s Clothes) in the Hottest Way Possible
      19 Tips to Spice Things up in the Bedroom
      How to
      Have Sex During Your Period
      How to
      Be Romantic in Bed
      How to
      Roleplay as a Dominatrix and Thrill Your Partner
      How to
      Make Great Love
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.teenhealthcare.org/blog/you-asked-it-lets-talk-lube/
      2. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      3. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.teenhealthcare.org/blog/you-asked-it-lets-talk-lube/
      5. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      6. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/love-sex/sex/g11652518/lube-types/
      7. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      8. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      9. ↑ https://www.teenhealthcare.org/blog/you-asked-it-can-you-use-lube-with-condoms/
      1. ↑ https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/ask-experts/is-it-safe-to-use-coconut-oil-as-lube
      2. ↑ http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/HealthyHealing/lubrications.pdf
      3. ↑ https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/Know_How_to_Use_Vaginal_Moisturizers_Lubricants.pdf
      4. ↑ https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/Know_How_to_Use_Vaginal_Moisturizers_Lubricants.pdf
      5. ↑ https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/Know_How_to_Use_Vaginal_Moisturizers_Lubricants.pdf
      6. ↑ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/how-to-masturbate-if-you-have-a-penis
      7. ↑ https://www.uhn.ca/PatientsFamilies/Health_Information/Health_Topics/Documents/Know_How_to_Use_Vaginal_Moisturizers_Lubricants.pdf
      8. ↑ https://www.womensvoices.org/lubricants-womens-health/
      9. ↑ https://www.womensvoices.org/lubricants-womens-health/
      10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/trying-to-get-pregnant-select-a-lubricant-that-is-most-helpful-for-sperm
      11. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      12. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/male-condoms/
      13. ↑ https://health.cornell.edu/sites/health/files/pdf-library/Condoms_Lube.pdf
      14. ↑ https://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/a28436344/types-of-lube-and-when-to-use-them/

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 22,652 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement